Q Why does acne develop?
A It begins when androgen hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil, and the follicle opening becomes clogged with dead skin cells and sebum. The core mechanism is that acne bacteria (C. acnes) break down the trapped sebum inside the follicle, triggering inflammation.
Detailed Answer
Acne arises from four interlocking factors. During puberty or under stress, androgen hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil, and the follicle opening becomes clogged as dead skin cells and oil-producing cells build up, a process called follicular hyperkeratosis. The acne bacteria living inside the clogged follicle break down the sebum into irritating free fatty acids, and inflammation spreads to the surrounding tissue in the process.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
At Dongjedang, we view acne not as a simple surface-level skin problem, but as a signal of heat-toxins and damp-phlegm accumulated inside the body bursting out through the skin via an overreactive immune response. Rather than merely suppressing the oil, we focus on changing the internal environment that generates those heat-toxins in the first place.
Related FAQs
-
Q
It's hard to come in often because of work. Is a non-face-to-face consultation possible?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
-
Q
Acne always comes up around my chin right before my period. Can this kind of hormonal acne improve with Korean medicine too?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
Along with acne, my face gets oily and shows red, flaky, itchy patches. Can this be treated together too?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
What everyday habits help reduce acne?
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
How should I wash my face and wear makeup? I'm afraid of irritation, so I can't bring myself to put anything on.
#Lifestyle Management